FRESNO COUNTY \u2013 West Nile Virus has been detected in mosquito samples that were collected in Fresno County.<\/p>\n
According to the announcement from June 5, the Consolidated Mosquito Abatement District detected the virus through samples of the Culex quinquefasciatus, commonly known as the southern house mosquito, and Culex tarsalis, a Northern American species of mosquito. This is the first detection of West Nile Virus activity in Fresno County this year.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis finding serves as a strong reminder that everyone should take precautions to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites,\u201d said Dr. Trinidad Solis, FCDPH health officer, via announcement. \u201cThe risk of getting infected with WNV is highest throughout the summer and early fall.\u201d<\/p>\n
As a result, the FCDPH is working closely with Fresno County mosquito control districts to increase mosquito surveillance and conduct public outreach. The Fresno County mosquito control districts are also using Environmental Protection Agency registered insecticides in areas with elevated mosquito activity.<\/p>\n
Fresno County residents are advised to contact their local mosquito control district to report standing water, mosquito issues, and neglected swimming pools \u2013 common mosquito development sites in urban and suburban areas.<\/p>\n
The announcement recommends staying protected against mosquito bites and West Nile by practicing the \u201cThree Ds\u201d:<\/p>\n
The first \u201cD\u201d is \u201cdeter:\u201d Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535 according to label instructions, as repellents keep mosquitoes from biting you.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Note: Insect repellents should be used on children according to label instructions. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children younger than 3 years of age. Parents of newborns and premature infants should be especially cautious when deciding whether to apply DEET or other chemicals on their child\u2019s skin.<\/p>\n
The next \u201cD\u201d is for \u201cdawn and dusk:\u201d Mosquitoes that transmit WNV usually bite in the early morning and evening, so it is important to wear proper clothing and repellent if outside during these times. Make sure that your doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep mosquitoes out. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.<\/p>\n
The last \u201cD\u201d is for \u201cdrain:\u201d Mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water. Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property, by emptying flowerpots, old car tires, buckets and other containers. If you know of a swimming pool that is not being properly maintained, please contact your local mosquito control district.\u00a0<\/p>\n
It\u2019s further noted that birds can act as reservoirs of West Nile Virus, and dead birds are a possible sign of virus transmission. Residents are encouraged to report dead birds on the California West Nile website at www.westnile.ca.gov or by calling toll-free 1-877-WNV-BIRD (968-2473).<\/p>\n